If you're searching for a quick, refreshing dish that bursts with flavor and is as beautiful as it is delicious, look no further than the Dining with Doc Butter Lettuce Salad! In just 10 minutes, you can whip up this vibrant salad that combines the crispness of butter lettuce with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, the crunch of walnuts, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette that will have your taste buds dancing. Perfect as a light lunch or a stunning side for dinner, this salad is not just a dish; it's a celebration of fresh ingredients that will leave you craving more. Ready to impress your guests or treat yourself? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head butter lettuce, torn
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Take the head of butter lettuce and carefully tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Place the torn lettuce into a large salad bowl.
- Next, wash the cherry tomatoes under cold running water. Once clean, slice them in half and add them to the bowl with the lettuce.
- Peel the red onion and slice it thinly. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, you can soak the slices in cold water for a few minutes before adding them to the salad. Add the thinly sliced red onion to the bowl.
- Chop the walnuts into smaller pieces, ensuring they are not too finely chopped. This will add a nice crunch to your salad. Add the chopped walnuts to the salad bowl.
- Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad ingredients. Start with half of the vinaigrette and toss the salad gently to combine all the ingredients. You can always add more dressing to your liking.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Toss the salad again to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- Once everything is well mixed, serve the salad immediately on individual plates or in bowls. Enjoy your fresh and flavorful Dining with Doc Butter Lettuce Salad!
Tips
- Ingredient Prep: For the best flavor and texture, ensure your butter lettuce is fresh and crisp. Tear it gently to avoid bruising the leaves, which can make them wilt.
- Onion Soaking: If you find raw onions too pungent, soak the sliced red onions in cold water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the salad. This will mellow their flavor significantly.
- Nutty Crunch: Toast your walnuts in a dry skillet for a few minutes to enhance their flavor and crunchiness. Just be careful not to burn them!
- Dressing Control: Start with half the balsamic vinaigrette and toss the salad gently. You can always add more dressing to suit your taste, ensuring your salad doesn’t become soggy.
- Serving Suggestions: For added protein, consider topping the salad with grilled chicken or chickpeas. This makes it a heartier meal while still keeping it light and fresh.
- Garnishing: Add some crumbled feta cheese or shaved parmesan for an extra layer of flavor. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also elevate the dish!
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store the salad without the dressing to keep the lettuce crisp. Dress just before serving for the best results.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 209kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
